Guide to Interim Management
Information for Interims
So you want to be an Interim Executive?
What you need to succeed...
First remember
A Client will hire an interim executive when their organisation is faced with a problem or an opportunity that requires immediate attention. They are looking for someone who has seen it and done it before - someone who would be operating entirely in their own comfort zone - immediately credible and totally competent. The interim for them is ‘an insurance policy’ to ensure their situation is resolved quickly and at minimum cost and minimum risk.
Attitude
- Willingness to drop everything and just go (requires a supportive family)
- ‘Presence’ and a positive, ‘make-it-happen’ approach
- Not bothered about titles and status – prepared to work a level down
- Objectivity – no hidden agendas, not looking for a job or an MBO/MBI
Skills
- Presenting yourself to win the audition
- Fast entry - instant credibility, listening and analysing
- Delivery – leadership, energy, creativity, team building and motivation
- Clean exit – leave structure, a plan, transferred skills
Experience
- Recent line (or project) management
- Recent successful delivery of change/transition
- Up-to-date knowledge in area of specialism
- 3 or 4 strong, enthusiastic references
Admin matters
You can operate through an umbrella company but most professional interim executives elect to set up their own companies – for this you need:
- An accountant – one that understands ‘IR35’ and one-person businesses
- A Limited Company – the accountant can buy this for you off-the-shelf
- VAT registration – again the accountant - or DIY for no cost
- HMRC registration as a TCSP in line with the new Money Laundering Regulations – http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/mlr/register.htm
- A consultancy style contract – obtainable from REC: www.rec.uk.com
- PI insurance – it depends entirely upon what is in your contract
- Consider ‘Opting out’ of EAA Regulations (see REC guide for limited company contractors)
Pricing
- Prices are set by the market not by costing-in a downtime allowance
- Forget the 1/100 formula
- Ensure you are good value for money
- A bonus element is becoming more usual
If you are interested in becoming a BIE Interim Executive, visit our Candidates page
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